Casa Cafe
Last inspected: Apr 16, 2026
70
Score
Public records show 22 inspections at Casa Cafe stretching back to 2010. The most recent visit was on Apr 16, 2026. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
The picture has gotten worse over the last few visits, with the average climbing from around five violations to closer to eight violations.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 13 times across the record.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
22
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
7
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 16, 2026
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 ALL BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN NEED OF LABELING FOR PROPER IDENTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED TO ADD IDENTIFIERS AND MAINTAIN
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-303.12 OBSERVED BUILD UP IN THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE AND ON THE BASES OF THE BLENDERS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 ALL WIPING CLOTHS WHEN NOT IN USE MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN SANITIZING SOLUTION. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) THE FOLLOWING ARE IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE AND FOOD BUILDUP: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALL PREP TABLES, ALL STORAGE SHELVES, AND ALL AREAS WHERE ITEMS ARE BEING STORED. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN
49
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: 5-403.12 FLOOR IN BASEMENT HAS WASTEWATER POOLING AROUND THE MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL STANDING WATER AND MAINTAIN CLEAR AND DRY
52
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 FLOORS AND WALLS IN FRONT PREP AREA AND IN 3 COMP SINK AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER, FOOD BUILD UP, AND ALL STANDING WATER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-304.11 MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE, AND DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN
56
70
Apr 9, 2026
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 FLATS (5 DOZEN) OF EGGS ON THE COUNTER OUT OF REFRIGERATION. EGGS WERE AT 66.2 DEGREES. EGGS WERE DISCARDED AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL EGGS UNDER REFRIGERATION AT ALL TIMES. 10BS $20.00 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
22
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 20-30 FLIES IN BASEMENT MOP AREA, 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AREA AND REAR DINING AREA. LAST PEST RECEIPT IS FROM 12-28-25 INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SERVICE TO ELIMINATE FLY ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN NEED OF LABELING FOR PROPER IDENTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED TO ADD IDENTIFIERS AND MAINTAIN
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP AT INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND ON BASES OF BLENDERS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: ALL WIPING CLOTHS WHEN NOT IN USE MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN SANITIZING SOLUTION. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE AND FOOD BUILD UP: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALL PREP TABLES, ALL STORAGE SHELVES, AND ALL AREAS WHERE ITEMS ARE BEING STORED. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: FLOOR IN BASEMENT HAS WASTEWATER POOLING AROUND MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL STANDING WATER AND MAINTAIN CLEAR AND DRY
52
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS AND WALLS IN FRONT PREP AREA AND IN 3 COMP SINK AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER, FOOD BUILD UP AND ALL STANDING WATER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE, AND DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
56
55
Jun 13, 2025
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE AND STORE ICE SCOOP IN A CLEAN BIN/CONTAINER OR IN THE ICE HANDLE UP. MAINTAIN SAME.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYER WITH CHARRED DEBRIS, GREASE AND DIRT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FRYER.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAK AT THE MIDDLE FAUCET ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN GOOD PLUMBING.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: WATER STAINED CEILING TILE ABOVE PREP TABLE ACROSS FROM THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER THE COOKING/COOLING EQUIPMENT, SINKS, AND IN THE WALK IN COOLER/FREEZER WITH FOOD, DIRT AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS ON SITE WITH NO PROOF THEY MET THE FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A VALID FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CFM ON SITE HAS NO VALID ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A VALID ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
70
Nov 19, 2024
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS AND SPLATTER ON SHELVING AND ON THE SIDES OF THE EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND OR INSECT ACTIVITY.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS UNDER THE SHELVING ALONG THE WALL. ALSO OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP ON THE FLOOR ALONG THE SIDE OF THE PIZZA OVEN AS WELL AS UNDER THE SHELVING UNITS ALONG THE WALLS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A HEAVY BUILD UP OF GREASE ON THE HOOD VENTILATION SYSYEM AND THE FILTERS OVER THE HOT LINE COOKING SERVICE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF FOODS BEING COOKED IN THE AREA.
56
86
Dec 14, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 1, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON PAPER MENU AND MENU BOARD. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE/REMINDER ON ALL MENUS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS AT HAND WASHING SINKS IN REAR MEN AND WOMEN WASHROOMS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS USED BY EMPLOYEES.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RESIDUE ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL PLATE USED FOR DISPENSING COOKED RICE IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES AND UTENSILS NOT INVERTED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INVERT ALL TAKE OUT CONTAINERS, SPOONS, AND FORKS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING UNITS IN WALK-IN COOLER, WALK-IN FREEZER, BASEMENT PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALK-IN FREEZER DOOR NOT CLOSING PROPERLY AND ONLY ONE STOPPER FOR 3-COMPARMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR WALK-IN FREEZER DOOR AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE STOPPERS.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN FRONT WOMEN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON FLOOR UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOP HEADS NOT PROPERLY STORED IN DISH WASHING AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY HANG MOPS TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING
55
55
Dec 13, 2022
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-502.13 OBSERVED FACILITY RE-USING SINGLE SERVICE CONTAINERS FOR FOOD STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO ONLY USE FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS OR FOOD GRADE PLASTIC BAGS FOR ALL FOOD STORAGE.
45
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED A MINOR LEAK AT THE FAUCET OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 OBSERVED MINOR CLUTTER IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ANY UNNECESSARY ITEMS.
55
86
Sep 24, 2021
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS BEING USED TO STORE FOOD. INFORMED THAT BAGS MUST BE FOOD GRADE BAGS AND INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN TO USE IN PLACE OF GROCERY BAGS. ALSO OBSERVED FOIL COVERING SHELVES IN FRONT SERVICE AREA BY COFFEE STATION. INSRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FREEZER DOOR WITH DAMAGED DOOR. (SHARP EDGES) INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD WORKING ORDER.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE SIDES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REFRIGERATION UNITS WITH A BUILD UP OF DUST, DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OPENING TO THE THREE DOOR PREP COOLER WITH A BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS AND STAINS AS WELL AS THE INSIDE BOTTOM AREA OF THE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND WASHING SINK NEAR THE DISH WASHING AREA WITH A LEAK AT THE DRAIN PIPE AND COMING LOOSE FROM WALL. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LEAK AND SEAL SINK TO WALL AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNUSED ITEMS (DESK)MILK CRATES BEING USED TO STORE ITEMS ON TOP OF (MUST PROVIDE PROPER SHELVING) AND CLUTTER IN BASEMENT TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DESK AND OTHER CLUTTER..
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WALLS AND FLOORS IN THE FOOD SERVICE AREA, DISH WASHING AREA AND BASEMENT WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING PEST AND INSECT HARBORING.
55
70
Nov 27, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE ON THE MENU FOR ALL ITEMS THAT CAN BE SERVED UNDERCOOKED OR RAW (OVER EASY EGGS). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE ON THE MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
25
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED ONE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
82
Jun 21, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREMISES WITH PROCEDURES/KIT FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARHEAL EVENTS BUT THERE IS NO DISINFECTANT RATED FOR NOROVIRUS, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005, NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT FREEZER WITH EXCESSIVE ICE, INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST AND CLEAN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CEILING IN THE DISH AREA SEVERAL WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE, ALSO CLEAN CEILING LIGHT SHIELD OVER DISH SINK.
55
82
Dec 14, 2018
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 13 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW BEEF STORED OVER SALSA IN REACH IN PREP COOLER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA, EGGS STORED OVER RTE SOUP IN BASEMENT WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE FOOD AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
15
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE DATE MARKINGS ON TCS & RTE FOODS PREPARED ONSITE AND HELD OVER 24 HRS IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSUME BY DATES ON FOOD AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A GREEN CHEMICAL SUBSTANCE IN A UNCOVERED YOGURT CONTAINER, STORED ON THE LOWER SHELVE OF THE 1-COMP PREP SINK IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND STORE CHEMICAL IN CLEAR IDENTIFIABLE CONTAINER WITH COMMON NAME VISIBLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-015 CITATION ISSUED.
28
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURES ON SITE FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KIT AND POST PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON-SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH POLICY OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT, PANEL A LITTLE DIRTY. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS AND FOOD GRADE BAGS IN FRONT AND BASEMENT PREP AREAS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD NOT COVERED AND FOOD STORED ON FLOORS IN WALK IN COOLERS AND FREEZER IN BASEMENT,AND ALSO IN THE 1-DOOR UPRIGHT COOLER BEHIND THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
39
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS ALL TIMES WHILE PREPARING FOOD IN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
40
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MULTI USE UTENSIL BEING STORED IMPROPERLY ON THE LOWER SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE BEHIND THE FRONT COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION, AND MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BROKEN INTERIOR PANEL AND LOCK ON WALK IN FREEZER DOOR IN BASEMENT. REPAIR THE CRACKED GLASS SLIDING LID ON THE ICE CREAM COOLER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. REMOVE RUST STORAGE SHELVES IN WALK-IN FREEZER, SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST DISCONTINUE USING GROCERY BAGS TO STORE FOOD IN ALL PREP AND WALK IN COOLERS, AND IN WALK IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE BAGS INSTEAD AND MAINTAIN
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET ON 3-COMP SINK IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER FROM ABOVE LARGE OVEN IN FRONT PREP AREA, IN MANAGER OFFICE IN BASEMENT, ALSO, BEHIND SMALL ICE CREAM FREEZER IN BASEMENT, DISH WASHING AREA, AND UNDER STAIRS NEAR REAR EXIT DOOR IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO ORGANIZE OR REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WATER AND DEBRIS FROM FLOORS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT PREP, AND MANAGERS OFFICE IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT IN KITCHEN HOOD, AND REACH IN COOLER IN FRONT PREP. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: INSPECTION SUMMARY FROM PREVIOUS INSPECTION NOT POSTED, INSTRUCTED TO POST AND MAKE VISIBLE TO CUSTOMERS AT ALL TIMES.
61
30
Mar 29, 2017
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES INSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER AND PREP COOLER ACROSS FROM THE GRILL. OBSERVED COOKED BEANS IN A LARGE POT AT 47.5F INSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER. ALSO, OBSERVED EGGS AT 51.1F AND CHORIZO AT 44.1F INSIDE OF THE PREP COOLER. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 52# OF FOOD WORTH $20. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
3
* inspection report summary displayed and visible to all customers
Inspector notes: NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY WAS DISPLAYED AND VISIBLE TO CUSTOMERS. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-010B.
28
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED RICE, FROZEN BEEF AND OTHER FOODS STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS IN THE COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE ONLY FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS. REPAIR THE CRACKED PLASTIC LID FOR THE DISPLAY FREEZER AT THE FRONT COUNTER.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE HOLES IN THE CEILING DRYWALL IN THE BASEMENT.
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST SHOW PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE.
45
78
Nov 9, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZAROUS FOODS (BEEF) OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS BEING STORED IN GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS FOR ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATE BEING USED AS A SCOOP AND STORED INSIDE OF A CONTAINER WITH BEEF LOCATED IN THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE UTENSILS AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED PLATES NOT INVERTED AT THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT PLATES AND MAINTAIN.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CRATES AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHEVLING AND MAINTAIN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS WITH ACCUMULATED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER OVEN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOT WATER PRESSURE NEEDS TO BE INCREASED IN THE 2ND MEN'S WASHROOM LOCATED IN THE BANQUET AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER (OLD EQUIPMENT, BOXES) ALONG THE WALL BEING STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE UNNECCESSARY CLUTTER AND ELEVATE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES AND MAINTAIN.
41
74
Feb 26, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (BEEF) WRAPPED IN PLASTIC LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER, HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS, WITHOUT LABEL CONTAINING PRODUCT NAME AND DATE. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOODS THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND MAINTAIN
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DIRT DEBRIS UNDER THE STOVE LOCATED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE DEBRIS ON THE VENTS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST ON THE VENT LOCATED IN THE WASHROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
35
86
Jun 22, 2015
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS, FORKS, SPOONS, KNIVES ON FRONT COUNTER TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE GROCERY BAGS AND PROPERLY STORE FOOD IN FOOD STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS. REMOVE MILK/POP CRATES AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: REMOVE EXCESS WATER OFF FLOOR IN BASEMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN PREP AREA, CLEAN VENTS INSIDE VENTILATION HOOD(DUST BUILDUP).
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELEVATE ALL STOCK OFF FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER. STORE MOP HEADS UPRIGHT TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR EMPLOYEES.
45
67
Jun 17, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: GASKETS ON DOORS AT THE 3 DOOR FOOD PREP COOLER ARE LOOSE-MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE GREASE TRAP BENEATH THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,HOOD/FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENTS REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD-UP.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: (1)LIGHT BULB INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER MUST BE SHIELDED OR PROVIDE A SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULB.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: NO SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT MENS TOILET ROOM-MUST PROVIDE,MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
37
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETERS VISIBLE INSIDE THE FOOD PREP COOLERS AT COOKLINE-MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
78
Mar 28, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN EXTERIOR SURFACES AND INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYER IN COOKING AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: SOME WATER ON FLOOR BY ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT; REMOVE WATER. HOSE ATTACHED TO MACHINE WAS NOT DRAINING INTO FLOOR DRAIN; HOSE WAS POSITIONED AWAY FROM DRAIN. (CDI) ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS FROM FLOOR OF WALK-IN FREEZER.
34
90
Sep 27, 2012
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: THE SHARPENING STEEL IN THE KNIFE HOLDER IS RUSTY; CLEAN, RINSE AND SANITIZE SO IT IS SMOOTH AND SANITARY.
31
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: THE REAR OUTER WALL OF THE WALK-IN COOLER IS MOLDY, REPAIR OR REPLACE THE MOLDY SECTION OF WALL.
35
90
Dec 16, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. THE WALKIN COOLER DOOR GASKET IS IN POOR REPAIR IT IS RIPPED AND TORN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. THR REACH IN FREEZER THICK WITH ICE BUILDUP THAT IS LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST AND CLEAN SAME. CLEAN THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT HAS SOME GREASE BUILDUP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT ALONG THE WALLS AND IN THE CORNERS.
34
86
May 13, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. THE REACHIN FREEZER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT IS THICK WITH ICE BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST AND CLEAN. THE TOP, SIDES, FRONT AND INSIDE THE LARGE OVEN NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN SAME.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. SOME CEILING TILES ABOVE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK ARE STAINED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE SAME.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. SOME LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN SAME.
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous foods shall have calibrated metal stem thermometers, provided and conspicuous, for refrigerated and hot food units. NO THERMOMETERS IN THE WALKIN COOLER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT AND NONE IN THE REACHIN COOLER IST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SAME.
40
82
Jun 28, 2010
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 21, 2010
License
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE BARRIERS(DOORS) SEPARATING FOOD PREP/SERVICE AREAS FROM DINING AREA- NO CITATION ISSUED
16
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: PROVIDE VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE AT NEXT VISIT- NO CITATION ISSUED
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF DEEP FREEZER IN BASEMENT.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FINISH SEALING BASEBOARDS IN REAR SECTION OF BASEMENT BY DOOR LEADING TO APARTMENTS. ATTACH WALL COVING (BASEBOARDS) TO LOWER SECTIONS OF WALLS IN BASEMENT WASHROOM.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE THREADS FROM FAUCET ATTACHED TO MOP SINK IN BASEMENT.
38
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Casa Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Casa Cafe on file is from Apr 16, 2026. The public record contains 22 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Casa Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 13 times, more than any other issue at Casa Cafe.
Has Casa Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Casa Cafe have averaged around eight violations per visit, up from roughly five earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Casa Cafe means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Casa Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Casa Cafe is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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